Adapter Systems and Methods for Aerosol Dispensing Systems

ABSTRACT

A dispenser for aerosol material includes an aerosol assembly, an adapter assembly comprising a fixed member and a removable member, and an actuator assembly. When the dispenser is in a first configuration, the fixed member is attached to the rim structure, and the removable member is detachably attached to the fixed member. When the dispenser is in a second configuration, the fixed member is attached to the rim structure, and the actuator assembly is detachably attached to the fixed member. The removable member substantially covers a valve structure of the aerosol assembly when the dispenser is in the first configuration. The actuator assembly engages the valve assembly to allow product to be dispensed from the aerosol assembly when the dispenser is in the second configuration.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application (Attorney's Ref. No. P217844) claims benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. Nos. 61/793,315, 61/801,537, and 61/800,653, all filed Mar. 15, 2013, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention is adapted to facilitate the use of dispensing systems employing an aerosol system with different types of actuator assemblies to dispense coatings such as texture material and may be configured to protect the valve of an aerosol system manufactured, shipped, and sold without an outlet assembly.

BACKGROUND

Interior wall surfaces of a structure are typically formed by sheets of drywall material secured to the framing of the structure. After the drywall material is secured to the framing, the seams between adjacent sheets are typically taped and mudded and sanded flat. At that point, a primer is typically applied to the taped and mudded sheets of drywall material. A finish coat of paint may be applied directly to the primer, but a texture coat may be applied to the primer before the finish coat is applied. Typically, a second primer coat is applied to the texture material. If used, a texture coat forms a bumpy, irregular surface that hides irregular mudding, taping, and sanding and creates an aesthetically pleasing textured look to the finished wall surface.

When an interior wall is damaged (e.g., scratch, hole, etc.), it is desirable that the wall be repaired such that the repaired portion substantially matches wall surrounding the repaired portion. The present invention is of particular importance when used to apply coatings in the context of repairing a wall surface.

SUMMARY

The present invention may be embodied as a dispenser for aerosol material, comprising an aerosol assembly, an adapter assembly, and an actuator assembly. The aerosol assembly comprises a valve structure and defines a rim structure that extends at least around the valve structure. The adapter assembly comprises a fixed member adapted to be attached to the rim structure and a removable member adapted to detachably attached to the fixed member. The actuator assembly is adapted to be detachably attached to the fixed member. The dispenser is in a first configuration when the fixed member is attached to the rim structure and the removable member is detachably attached to the fixed member. The dispenser is in a second configuration when the fixed member is attached to the rim structure and the actuator assembly is detachably attached to the fixed member. The removable member substantially covers the valve structure when the dispenser is in the first configuration. The actuator assembly engages the valve assembly to allow product to be dispensed from the aerosol assembly when the dispenser is in the second configuration.

The present invention may also be embodied as a method of dispensing aerosol material, comprising the following steps. An aerosol assembly is provided. The aerosol assembly comprises a valve structure and defines a rim structure that extends at least around the valve structure. An adapter assembly is provided. The adapter assembly comprises a fixed member adapted to be attached to the rim structure and a removable member adapted to detachably attached to the fixed member. An actuator assembly adapted to be detachably attached to the fixed member is provided. The dispenser is arranged in a first configuration by attaching the fixed member to the rim structure and the removable member to the fixed member such that the removable member substantially covers the valve structure. The dispenser is arranged in a second configuration by attaching the fixed member to the rim structure and the actuator assembly to the fixed member such that the actuator assembly engages the valve assembly. The actuator assembly is operated to dispense product from the aerosol assembly when the dispenser is in the second configuration.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a section view of an example adapter system of the present invention connected to an example aerosol dispensing system in a storage configuration;

FIG. 2 is a section view of the example adapter system in an access configuration;

FIG. 3 is a section view of an example adapter system of the present invention connected to an example aerosol dispensing system in a storage configuration;

FIG. 4 is a section view of the example adapter system in an access configuration;

FIG. 5 is a section view of an example adapter system of the present invention connected to an example aerosol dispensing system in a storage configuration;

FIG. 6 is a partial section view of the example adapter system in an access configuration;

FIG. 7 is a bottom plan view of a removable member of the example adapter system;

FIG. 8 is a top plan view of a fixed member of the example adapter system as attached to the example aerosol dispensing system;

FIG. 9 is a partial section view of an example actuator assembly adapted to use the example adapter system;

FIG. 10 is a partial section view of the example actuator assembly connected to an example aerosol dispensing system by the example adapter system;

FIG. 11 is a partial section view of the example actuator assembly adapted to use the example adapter system;

FIG. 12 is a partial section view of the example actuator assembly adapted to use the example adapter system;

FIG. 13 is a partial section view of an example actuator assembly adapted to use the example adapter system;

FIG. 14 is a partial section view of an example actuator assembly adapted to use the example adapter system;

FIGS. 15 and 16 are partial section views of an example actuator assembly in first and second configurations, where the example actuator assembly is adapted to use the example adapter system;

FIGS. 17 and 18 are partial section views of an example actuator assembly in first and second configurations, where the example actuator assembly is adapted to use the example adapter system;

FIGS. 19 and 20 are partial section views of an example actuator assembly in first and second configurations, where the example actuator assembly is adapted to use the example adapter system;

FIGS. 21 and 22 are partial section views of an example actuator assembly in first and second configurations, where the example actuator assembly is adapted to use the example adapter system;

FIG. 23 is a partial section view of an example actuator assembly adapted to use the example adapter system;

FIGS. 24 and 25 are partial section views of an example actuator assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 26 is a top plan view of an example actuator assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 27 is a top plan view of an example actuator assembly of the present invention;

FIGS. 28 and 29 are partial section views of an example actuator assembly of the present invention;

FIGS. 30 and 31 are partial section view of an example actuator assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 32 is a plan view of an example actuator assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 33 is a section view of an example protection system of the present invention connected to an example aerosol dispensing system in a storage configuration;

FIG. 34 is a top plan view of the example protection system in the storage configuration;

FIG. 35 is a top plan view of the example protection system in an access configuration;

FIG. 36 is a section view of the example protection system in the access configuration and the example aerosol dispensing system in a dispensing configuration;

FIG. 37 is a section view of an example protection system of the present invention connected to an example aerosol dispensing system in a storage configuration;

FIG. 38 is a section view of an example protection system of the present invention connected to an example aerosol dispensing system in a storage configuration;

FIG. 39 is a section view of an example protection system of the present invention connected to an example aerosol dispensing system in a storage configuration;

FIG. 40 is a section view of an example protection system of the present invention connected to an example aerosol dispensing system in a storage configuration;

FIG. 41 is a section view of an example protection system of the present invention connected to an example aerosol dispensing system in a storage configuration; and

FIG. 42 is a section view of an example protection system of the present invention connected to an example aerosol dispensing system in a storage configuration.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring initially to FIGS. 1 and 2 of the drawing, depicted therein is an example of an adapter system 20 constructed in accordance with, and embodying, the principles of the present invention. The example adapter system 20 is used with an aerosol system 22. The example aerosol system 22 is or may be conventional and will be explained herein only to that extent necessary for a complete understanding of the present invention.

The example aerosol system 22 comprises an aerosol container 30 and a valve cup 32. The valve cup 32 is mounted to the container 30 at a rim structure 40 formed by a container crimped portion 42 and a valve cup crimped portion 44. The example aerosol assembly 22 further comprises a valve assembly 50 and a dip tube 52. The example valve assembly 50 comprises a valve housing 60, a valve seat member 62, a valve member 64, and a valve spring 66. The valve member 64 defines a valve member cavity 70 and a valve member projection 72 that extends into the valve cavity 70.

The example valve cup 32 defines an exterior surface 80 having a mouth portion 82, a throat portion 84, and an undercut portion 86. A diameter of the mouth portion 82 is smaller than a diameter of the throat portion 84. The undercut portion 86 extends between the mouth portion 82 and the throat portion 84 and has a vector component that is substantially perpendicular to an axis A defined by the container 30 when the valve cup 32 is joined to the aerosol container 30 by the rim structure 40. The exterior surface 80 of the valve cup 32 further defines an outermost portion 90 and an end portion 92. The diameter of the outermost portion 90 is larger than that of the end portion 92, so the end portion 92 also has a vector component that is also substantially perpendicular to the container axis A when the valve cup 32 is joined to the aerosol container 30.

The aerosol system 22 thus defines certain components and features that will be accommodated by the various examples of the adapter system 20 of the present invention as described herein. To the contrary, the example adapter system 20 of the present invention facilitates the use of aerosol systems of many sizes, shapes, and configurations. In that context, the example aerosol system 22 will not be described again in detail in connection with other examples of the aerosol dispensing system 20 of the present invention.

Turning again back to FIGS. 1 and 2, it can be seen that the example adapter system 20 comprises an example adapter assembly 120 comprising a fixed member 122 and a removable member 124. The fixed member 122 defines a plug portion 130 and a perimeter portion 132. The example plug portion 130 defines an outer surface 140 and an inner surface 142. The example inner surface 142 is threaded to define a transition surface as will be described in further detail below.

The example outer surface 140 of the plug portion 130 defines a proximal portion 150, a distal portion 152, and a transition portion 154. The perimeter portion 132 of the fixed member 122 defines an engaging surface 160 having a widest portion 162 and a tip portion 164.

The example removable member 124 defines a base portion 190 and an extension portion 192. The extension portion 192 defines a threaded surface 194.

The example adapter assembly 120 is assembled and used as follows. The fixed member 122 is displaced until the plug portion 130 engages the valve cup exterior surface 80 and the perimeter portion 132 engages the rim structure 40. In particular, the distal portion 152 of the outer surface 140 of the plug portion 130 is forced past a restriction formed by the mouth portion 82 of the valve cup exterior surface 80. At the same time, the tip portion 164 of the engaging surface 160 on the perimeter portion 132 is forced past the outermost portion 90 of the valve cup exterior surface 80. When the distal portion 152 passes the mouth portion 82 and the tip portion 164 passes the outermost portion 90, the fixed member 122 snaps into place on the aerosol system 22 in an attached position as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. In this attached position, the transition portion 154 engages the undercut portion 86 and the tip portion 164 engages the end portion 92 to positively lock the fixed member 122 into the attached position.

With the fixed member 122 in the attached position, the removable member 124 may be detachably attached to the fixed member 122 using internal threads formed on the inner or transition surface 142 on the fixed member 122 and mating external threads on the threaded surface 194 of the extension portion 192 of the removable member 124. When the removable member 124 is attached to the fixed member 122 as shown in FIG. 1, access to the valve member cavity 70 and valve member projection 72 is restricted. When the removable member 124 is detached from the fixed member 122 as shown in FIG. 2, access to the valve member cavity 70 and valve member projection 72 is allowed.

Turning now to FIGS. 3 and 4, depicted therein is an example adapter assembly 220 that may be used to form an example adapter system of the present invention. The example adapter assembly 220 comprises a fixed member 222 and a removable member 224. The fixed member 222 defines a plug portion 230, a perimeter portion 232, and a transition portion 234. The example plug portion 230 defines an outer surface 240.

The example outer surface 240 of the plug portion 230 defines a proximal portion 250, a distal portion 252, and a transition portion 254. The perimeter portion 232 of the fixed member 122 defines an engaging surface 260 having a widest portion 262 and a tip portion 264. The transition portion 234 of the fixed member 222 defines a transition surface 270.

The example removable member 224 defines a base portion 290 and an extension portion 292. The extension portion 292 defines a threaded surface 294.

The example adapter assembly 220 is assembled and used as follows. The fixed member 222 is displaced until the plug portion 230 engages the valve cup exterior surface 80 and the perimeter portion 232 engages the rim structure 40. In particular, the distal portion 252 of the outer surface 240 of the plug portion 230 is forced past a restriction formed by the mouth portion 82 of the valve cup exterior surface 80. At the same time, the tip portion 264 of the engaging surface 260 on the perimeter portion 232 is forced past the outermost portion 90 of the valve cup exterior surface 80. When the distal portion 252 passes the mouth portion 82 and the tip portion 264 passes the outermost portion 90, the fixed member 222 snaps into place on the aerosol system 22 in an attached position as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. In this attached position, the transition portion 254 engages the undercut portion 86 and the tip portion 264 engages the end portion 92 to positively lock the fixed member 222 into the attached position.

With the fixed member 222 in the attached position, the removable member 224 may be detachably attached to the fixed member using external threads formed on the transition surface 270 on the fixed member 222 and mating internal threads on the threaded surface 294 of the extension portion 292 of the removable member 224. When the removable member 224 is attached to the fixed member 222 as shown in FIG. 3, access to the valve member cavity 70 and valve member projection 72 is restricted. When the removable member 224 is detached from the fixed member 222 as shown in FIG. 4, access to the valve member cavity 70 and valve member projection 72 is allowed.

Turning now to FIGS. 5 and 6, depicted therein is an example adapter assembly 320 that may be used to form an example adapter system of the present invention. The example adapter assembly 320 comprises a fixed member 322 and a removable member 324. The fixed member 322 defines a plug portion 330, a perimeter portion 332, and a transition portion 334. The example plug portion 330 defines an outer surface 340.

The example outer surface 340 of the plug portion 330 defines a proximal portion 350, a distal portion 352, and a transition portion 354. The perimeter portion 332 of the fixed member 322 defines an engaging surface 360 having a widest portion 362 and a tip portion 364.

The transition portion 334 of the fixed member 322 defines a transition opening 370. As perhaps best shown in FIG. 8, one or more lock bumps 372 are formed on the transition portion 334, and one or more key notches 374 are formed on opposing sides of the transition opening 370. Locking portions 376 of the transition portion 334 of the fixed member 322 are formed between each of the key notches 374.

The example removable member 324 defines a base portion 380 and an extension portion 382. A locking lip 390 is formed on the extension portion 382 for each of the key notches 374. One or more locking recesses 392 are formed on the extension portion 382 as shown in FIG. 7.

The example adapter assembly 320 is assembled and used as follows. The fixed member 322 is displaced until the plug portion 330 engages the valve cup exterior surface 80 and the perimeter portion 332 engages the rim structure 40. In particular, the distal portion 352 of the outer surface 340 of the plug portion 330 is forced past a restriction formed by the mouth portion 82 of the valve cup exterior surface 80. At the same time, the tip portion 364 of the engaging surface 360 on the perimeter portion 332 is forced past the outermost portion 90 of the valve cup exterior surface 80. When the distal portion 352 passes the mouth portion 82 and the tip portion 364 passes the outermost portion 90, the fixed member 322 snaps into place on the aerosol system 22 in an attached position as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6. In this attached position, the transition portion 354 engages the undercut portion 86 and the tip portion 364 engages the end portion 92 to positively lock the fixed member 322 into the attached position.

With the fixed member 322 in the attached position, the removable member 324 may be detachably attached to the fixed member using a latch system formed by the locking lip 390 and the locking portions 376. In particular, the removable member is oriented such that the locking lip(s) 390 are aligned with the key notch(es) 374 and displaced such that the locking lip(s) 390 pass through the transition opening 370. The removable member 324 is then rotated such that the locking lip(s) 390 are arranged under the locking portion 376. The locking recesses 392 receive the locking projections 372 to inhibit inadvertent rotation of the removable member 324 relative to the fixed member 322. The removable member 324 may be detached by reversing this process.

When the removable member 324 is attached to the fixed member 322 as shown in FIG. 5, access to the valve member cavity 70 and valve member projection 72 is restricted. When the removable member 324 is detached from the fixed member 322 as shown in FIG. 6, access to the valve member cavity 70 and valve member projection 72 is allowed.

Turning now to FIGS. 9 and 10 of the drawing, depicted therein is an embodiment 420 a of an example actuator assembly 420 that is adapted to be connected to the aerosol system 22 using the example fixed member 122 described above. The example actuator member 420 comprises a handle housing 422, an outlet member 424, a trigger member 426, and an outlet assembly 428. Optionally, the outlet assembly 428 may define an adjustable orifice. The example trigger member 426 comprises a finger portion 430 and a trigger projection 432. The trigger member 426 is rotatably connected to the handle housing 422 at an axis 434. Displacing the finger portion 430 in a first direction causes the trigger member 426 to rotate about the axis 434 such that the trigger projection 432 displaces the outlet member 424 downwardly relative to the handle housing 422.

The example handle housing 422 defines an interface portion 440 comprising a threaded surface 442. The example interface portion 440 is below the handle housing 422 during normal use of this example actuator assembly 420 a. The threaded surface 442 is adapted to mate with the inner transition surface 142 of the example fixed member 122 to detachably attach the example actuator assembly 420 a to the aerosol system 22 such that the outlet member 424 engages the valve assembly 50. The aerosol system 22 is supported below the example actuator assembly 420 a during normal use. So attached, downward movement of the trigger projection 432 caused by displacement of the finger portion 430 causes the outlet member 424 to move downward, place the valve assembly 50 in its open configuration, and dispense contained material through the outlet assembly 428.

FIG. 11 illustrates an embodiment 420 b of the example actuator assembly 420 that is adapted to be connected to the aerosol system 22 using the example fixed member 222 described above. In the embodiment 420 b, the example handle housing 422 defines an interface portion 450 comprising a threaded surface 452. The threaded surface 452 is adapted to mate with the transition surface 270 of the example fixed member 222 to detachably attach the actuator assembly 420 b to the aerosol system 22 such that the outlet member 424 engages the valve assembly 50. So attached, displacement of the finger portion 430 causes material to be dispensed through the outlet assembly 428.

FIG. 12 illustrates an embodiment 420 c of the example actuator assembly 420 that is adapted to be connected to the aerosol system 22 using the example fixed member 322 described above. In the embodiment 420 c, the example handle housing 422 defines an interface portion 460 comprising a locking lip 462 and one or more locking recesses 464. The locking lip 462 and locking recesses 464 are adapted to engage the locking portions 376 of the example fixed member 322 to detachably attach the actuator assembly 420 c to the aerosol system 22 such that the outlet member 424 engages the valve assembly 50. So attached, displacement of the finger portion 430 causes material to be dispensed through the outlet assembly 428.

Turning now to FIG. 13, depicted therein is an example actuator assembly 520 that is adapted to be connected to the aerosol system 22 using the example fixed member 122 described above. The example actuator assembly 520 comprises a handle housing 522, an outlet member 524, a trigger member 526, and an outlet assembly 528. Optionally, the outlet assembly 528 may define an adjustable orifice. The example trigger member 526 comprises a finger portion 530 and a trigger projection 532. The trigger member 526 is pivotably connected to the handle housing 522 at a hinge point 534. Displacing the finger portion 530 in a first direction causes the trigger member 526 to pivot about the hinge point such that the trigger projection 532 displaces the outlet member 524 upwards relative to the handle housing 522.

The example handle housing 522 defines an interface portion 522 a comprising a threaded surface 442. The example interface portion 522 a is above the handle housing 522 during normal use of this example actuator assembly 520. The example interface portion 522 a is similar to the interface portion 440 described above, and a threaded surface 442 defined by the interface portion 522 a is adapted to mate with the inner transition surface 142 of the example fixed member 122 to detachably attach the example actuator assembly 520 to the aerosol system 22 such that the outlet member 524 engages the valve assembly 50. The aerosol system 22 is supported above by the example actuator assembly 520 during normal use. So attached, upward movement of the trigger projection 532 caused by displacement of the finger portion 530 causes the outlet member 524 to move upward, place the valve assembly 50 in its open configuration, and dispense contained material through the outlet assembly 528.

While not explicitly shown in the interests of brevity and clarity, the example actuator assembly 520 may be adapted to be connected to the aerosol system 22 using the interface portions 450 or 460 and the example fixed members 222 and 322 described above.

Turning now to FIG. 14, depicted therein is an example actuator assembly 550 that is adapted to be connected to the aerosol system 22 using the example fixed member 122 described above. The example actuator member 550 comprises a handle housing 552, an outlet member 554, a trigger member 556, and an outlet assembly 558. Optionally, the outlet assembly 558 may define an adjustable orifice. The example trigger member 556 comprises a finger portion 560 and a trigger projection 562. The trigger member 556 is pivotably connected to the handle housing 552 at a hinge point 564. Displacing the finger portion 560 in a first direction causes the trigger member 556 to pivot about the hinge point such that the trigger projection 562 displaces the outlet member 554 rearwards relative to the handle housing 552.

The example handle housing 552 defines an interface portion 552 a that faces behind the handle housing 552 during normal use of this example actuator assembly 550. The example interface portion 552 a may be the same as the example interface portions 440 described above. The example interface portion 552 a thus defines the threaded surface 442 adapted to mate with the inner transition surface 142 of the example fixed member 122 to detachably attach the example actuator assembly 550 to the aerosol system 22 such that the outlet member 554 engages the valve assembly 50. The aerosol system 22 is supported behind the example actuator assembly 550 during normal use. So attached, rearward movement of the trigger projection 562 caused by displacement of the finger portion 560 causes the outlet member 554 to move rearward, place the valve assembly 50 in its open configuration, and dispense contained material through the outlet assembly 558.

While not explicitly shown in the interests of brevity and clarity, the example actuator assembly 550 may be adapted to be connected to the aerosol system 22 using the interface portions 450 or 460 and the example fixed members 222 and 322 described above.

Turning now to FIGS. 15 and 16, depicted therein is an example actuator assembly 570 that is adapted to be connected to the aerosol system 22 using the example fixed member 122 described above. The example actuator member 570 comprises a handle housing 572, an outlet member 574, a trigger member 576, and an outlet assembly 578. Optionally, the outlet assembly 578 may define an adjustable orifice. The example trigger member 576 comprises a finger portion 580 and a trigger projection 582. The trigger member 576 is supported for sliding, linear, front and back movement on the handle housing 572 by rails 584. A cam surface 586 is formed on top of the example outlet member 574. Displacing the finger portion 580 in a first direction causes the trigger member 576 to slide rearwardly along the rails 584 such that the trigger projection 582 acts on the cam surface 586. The cam surface 586 is configured to translate rearward linear movement of the trigger projection 582 into downward movement of the outlet member 574.

The example handle housing 572 defines an interface portion 572 a configured to face below the handle housing 572 during normal use of this example actuator assembly 570. The example interface portion 572 a is similar to the interface portion 440 described above and thus defines a threaded surface 442. The threaded surface 442 is adapted to mate with the inner transition surface 142 of the example fixed member 122 to detachably attach the example actuator assembly 570 to the aerosol system 22 such that the outlet member 574 engages the valve assembly 50. The aerosol system 22 is supported below the example actuator assembly 570 during normal use. So attached, rearward movement of the trigger projection 582 caused by displacement of the finger portion 580 causes the outlet member 574 to move downward, place the valve assembly 50 in its open configuration, and dispense contained material through the outlet assembly 578.

While not explicitly shown in the interests of brevity and clarity, the example actuator assembly 570 may be adapted to be connected to the aerosol system 22 using the interface portions 450 or 460 and the example fixed members 222 and 322 described above.

Turning now to FIGS. 17 and 18, depicted therein is an example actuator assembly 620 that is adapted to be connected to the aerosol system 22 using the example fixed member 122 described above. The example actuator member 620 comprises a handle housing 622, an outlet member 624, a trigger assembly 626, and an outlet assembly 628. Optionally, the outlet assembly 628 may define an adjustable orifice. The example trigger assembly 626 comprises a trigger member 630 and a trigger link 632. The trigger member 630 is supported for pivoting movement relative to the handle housing 622 about a first pivot axis 634. The trigger link 632 is supported for pivoting movement relative to the handle housing 622 about a second pivot axis 636. The trigger member 630 and trigger link 632 are further operatively connected to allow relative rotation about a moving pivot axis 638. Rotating the trigger member 630 in a clockwise direction causes the trigger member 626 to rotate the trigger link 632 downwardly in a counterclockwise direction such that the trigger link 632 displaces the outlet member 624 downward relative to the handle housing 622.

The example handle housing 622 defines an interface portion 622 a configured to face below the handle housing 622 during normal use of this example actuator assembly 620. The example interface portion 622 a is similar to the interface portion 440 described above and thus defines a threaded surface 442. The threaded surface 442 is adapted to mate with the inner transition surface 142 of the example fixed member 122 to detachably attach the example actuator assembly 620 to the aerosol system 22 such that the outlet member 624 engages the valve assembly 50. The aerosol system 22 is supported below the example actuator assembly 620 during normal use. With the aerosol system so supported by the interface portion 622 a, clockwise movement of the trigger member 630 results in counterclockwise movement of the trigger link 632, which in turn causes the outlet member 624 to move downward, place the valve assembly 50 in its open configuration, and dispense contained material through the outlet assembly 628.

While not explicitly shown in the interests of brevity and clarity, the example actuator assembly 620 may be adapted to be connected to the aerosol system 22 using the interface portions 450 or 460 and the example fixed members 222 and 322 described above.

Turning now to FIGS. 19 and 20, depicted therein is an example actuator assembly 650 that is adapted to be connected to the aerosol system 22 using the example fixed member 122 described above. The example actuator member 650 comprises a handle housing 652, an outlet member 654, a trigger assembly 656, and an outlet assembly 658. Optionally, the outlet assembly 658 may define an adjustable orifice. The example trigger assembly 656 comprises a trigger member 660 and a trigger link 662. The trigger member 660 is supported for pivoting movement relative to the handle housing 662 about a first pivot axis 664. The trigger link 662 is supported for pivoting movement relative to the handle housing 652 about a second pivot axis 666. The trigger member 660 defines a first gear portion 670 and the trigger link 662 defines a second gear portion 672, and the first and second gear portions 670 and 672 are operatively connected such that clockwise rotation of the trigger member 660 results in counterclockwise rotation of the trigger link 662. Accordingly, rotating the trigger member 660 in a clockwise direction causes the trigger member 656 to rotate the trigger link 662 upwardly in a counterclockwise direction such that a trigger projection 674 on the trigger link 662 displaces the outlet member 654 upward relative to the handle housing 652.

The example handle housing 652 defines an interface portion 652 a configured to face above the handle housing 652 during normal use of this example actuator assembly 650. The example interface portion 652 a is similar to the interface portion 440 described above and thus defines a threaded surface 442. The threaded surface 442 is adapted to mate with the inner transition surface 142 of the example fixed member 122 to detachably attach the example actuator assembly 650 to the aerosol system 22 such that the outlet member 654 engages the valve assembly 50. The aerosol system 22 is supported above the example actuator assembly 650 during normal use. With the aerosol system so supported by the interface portion 652 a, clockwise movement of the trigger member 660 results in counterclockwise movement of the trigger link 662, which in turn causes the outlet member 654 to move upward, place the valve assembly 50 in its open configuration, and dispense contained material through the outlet assembly 658.

While not explicitly shown in the interests of brevity and clarity, the example actuator assembly 650 may be adapted to be connected to the aerosol system 22 using the interface portions 450 or 460 and the example fixed members 222 and 322 described above.

Turning now to FIGS. 21 and 22 of the drawing, depicted therein is an example actuator assembly 720 that is adapted to be connected to the aerosol system 22 using the first example fixed member 122 described above. The example actuator assembly 720 comprises a handle housing 722, an outlet member 724, a trigger member 726, and an outlet assembly 728. Optionally, the outlet assembly 728 may define an adjustable orifice. The example trigger member 726 comprises a finger portion 730 and a trigger projection 732. The trigger member 726 is rotatably connected to the handle housing 722 at an axis 734. Displacing the finger portion 730 in a first direction causes the trigger member 726 to rotate about the axis 734 such that the trigger projection 732 displaces the outlet member 724 downwardly relative to the handle housing 722. The example actuator assembly 720 further comprises limit member 740 in the form of a set screw, but the limit member 740 can take other forms.

The example handle housing 722 defines an interface portion 722 a comprising a threaded surface 442 that is similar to the interface portion 440 described above. The example interface portion 722 a is below the handle housing 722 during normal use of this example seventh example actuator assembly 720. The threaded surface 442 is adapted to mate with the inner transition surface 142 of the example fixed member 122 to detachably attach the example actuator assembly 720 to the aerosol system 22 such that the outlet member 724 engages the valve assembly 50. The aerosol system 22 is supported below the example actuator assembly during normal use. So attached, downward movement of the trigger projection 732 caused by displacement of the finger portion 730 causes the outlet member 724 to move downward, place the valve assembly 50 in its open configuration, and dispense contained material through the outlet assembly 728.

The limit member 740 is movably supported by the handle housing 722 to limit movement of the trigger member 726. The limit member 740 may thus be configured to limit operation of the trigger member 726, which thereby limits an opening defined by the valve assembly 50, which in turn limits the amount of material dispensed when the trigger member 726 is displaced to open the valve assembly 50.

FIG. 23 depicts an example actuator assembly 820 that is adapted to be connected to the aerosol system 22 using the example fixed member 122 described above. The example actuator member 820 comprises a handle housing 822, an outlet member 824, a trigger member 826, and an outlet assembly 828. Optionally, the outlet assembly 828 may define an adjustable orifice. The example trigger member 826 comprises a finger portion 830 and a trigger projection 832. The trigger member 826 is pivotably connected to the handle housing 822 at a hinge point 834. Displacing the finger portion 830 in a first direction causes the trigger member 826 to pivot about the hinge point such that the trigger projection 832 displaces the outlet member 824 upwards relative to the handle housing 822.

The example handle housing 822 defines first and second interface portions 840 and 842. In the example actuator member 820, both the first and second interface portions 840 and 842 are located above the handle housing 822 during normal use. However, the first interface portion 840 may be located behind, below, or within the handle housing 822. As will be described in detail below, the second interface portion 842 supports material that is fed by gravity into the handle housing 822, in which case the second interface portion must be arranged above the handle housing 822. The position of the second interface portion 842 may be changed, however, with other feed systems such as a Venturi feed system or the like.

The first interface portion 840 is similar to the interface portion 440 defined above and comprises a threaded surface 442. The threaded surface 442 defined by the interface portion 840 is adapted to mate with the inner transition surface 142 of the example fixed member 122 to detachably attach the example actuator assembly 820 to the aerosol system 22 such that the outlet member 424 engages the valve assembly 50.

The second interface portion 842 comprises a valve assembly 850 and a hopper structure 852 defining a bag interface portion 854. The hopper structure 852 is adapted to support a product bag 860 comprising a bag opening structure 862. The bag opening structure 862 is received by the bag interface portion 854 to allow fluid to flow out of the product bag 860 and to the valve assembly 850.

The valve housing defines a fluid flow path extending from a feed chamber 870, through a feed channel 872, through a mixing chamber portion 874, and an outlet channel 876. The outlet channel 876 is in fluid communication with the outlet assembly 828.

In use, the product bag 860 is supported by the hopper structure 852 with the bag opening structure 862 engaged with the bag interface portion 854 such that product within the product bag 860 may flow towards the valve assembly 850. When the valve assembly 850 is opened, the product is allowed to flow into the mixing chamber 874.

The aerosol system 22 is supported above the example actuator assembly 820 during normal use. So attached, upward movement of the trigger projection 832 caused by displacement of the finger portion 830 causes the outlet member 824 to move upward, place the valve assembly 50 in its open configuration, and dispense contained material through the outlet assembly 828. In the example actuator assembly 820, the contained aerosol material dispensed from the aerosol system 22 is mixed with the product within the mixing chamber. The aerosol material dispensed from the aerosol system 22 is pressurized and entrains the product in the mixing chamber 874 and carries the product out of the outlet assembly 828 in a spray.

While not explicitly shown in the interests of brevity and clarity, the example actuator assembly 820 may be adapted to be connected to the aerosol system 22 using the interface portions 450 or 460 and the example fixed members 222 and 322 described above.

Turning now to FIGS. 24-26 of the drawing, depicted therein is an example actuator assembly 1020 adapted to be connected to an aerosol system 1022 to facilitate the dispensing of material from the aerosol system 1022. The example actuator assembly 1020 and aerosol system 1022 are of particular significance in the dispensing of coatings such as texture material, and that application of the invention will be described herein below.

The example aerosol system 1022 is or may be conventional and will be described herein only to that extent necessary for a complete understanding of the present invention. The example aerosol system 1022 comprises a container 1024, a valve assembly 1026, and first and second crimp portions 1028 a and 1028 b. The container 1024 defines a container axis A1.

The example actuator assembly 1020 comprises a handle housing 1030, an outlet member 1032, a trigger member 1034, and an outlet assembly 1036.

The handle housing 1030 comprises a support wall 1040 and a handle wall 1042, and detent projections 1044 and 1046 are formed in the support wall 1040. The support wall 1040 further extends rearwardly from the handle wall 1042 such that, in use, the support wall 1040 can rest on or otherwise engage the user's forearm when the user's hand is gripping the handle wall 1042 and the trigger member 1034 as will be described in further detail below. Further, the support wall 1040 is configured to support the aerosol system 1022 as will be described in further detail below.

The outlet member 1032 comprises a connecting end 1050, a distal end 1052, and an outlet ring 1054. The outlet member 1032 is supported for sliding movement relative to the handle housing 1030 along an outlet axis A2.

The outlet assembly 1036 is secured to the distal end 1052 of the outlet member 1032. Optionally, the outlet assembly 1036 may define an adjustable orifice to facilitate the dispensing of texture material in different texture patterns.

The example trigger member 1034 comprises a finger portion 1060 and a trigger projection 1062. The trigger member 1034 is rotatably connected to the handle housing 1030 about a trigger axis A3. Further, the trigger projection 1062 on the trigger member 1034 engages outlet ring 1054 such that pivoting or circular movement of the trigger projection 1062 causes linear movement of the outlet member 1032 along the outlet axis A2.

In use, the container 1024 is arranged such that the container axis A1 is aligned with the outlet axis A2 and displaced along the outlet axis until the connecting end 1050 of the outlet member 1032 engages the valve 1026. The housing support wall 1040 supports the container 1024 when the outlet member connecting end 1050 engages the valve 1026. Further, the detent projections 1044 and 1046 engage the first crimp portion 1028 a to inhibit movement of the container 1034 along the outlet axis A2 when the outlet member connecting end 1050 engages the valve 1026.

At this point, the user grips the handle wall 1042 and squeezes the finger portion 1060 of the trigger member 1034 towards the handle wall 1042. Rotating movement of the finger portion 1060 causes similar rotating movement of the trigger projection 1062. Movement of the trigger projection causes linear movement of the outlet member 1032 towards the valve assembly 1026. The connecting end 1050 of the outlet member 1032 places the valve assembly 1026 in its open configuration, allowing dispensed material to flow out of the aerosol system 1022 through the outlet member 1032 and the outlet assembly 1036.

FIG. 26 illustrates that the support wall 1040 extends along a substantial portion, or at least half, of a length of the container 1024 in a direction along the container axis A1. The support wall 1040 thus provides support for the container 1024 of the aerosol system 1022 when in use.

FIG. 27 illustrates an example actuator assembly 1120 adapted to be connected to aerosol systems 1122 a and 1122 b to facilitate the dispensing of material from an aerosol system. The example actuator assembly 1120 and aerosol system 1122 a and 1122 b are of particular significance in the dispensing of coatings such as texture material, and that application of the invention will be described herein below.

The example aerosol systems 1122 a and 1122 b are or may be conventional and will be described herein only to that extent necessary for a complete understanding of the present invention. The example aerosol systems 1122 a and 1122 b comprise containers 1124 a and 1124 b, valve assemblies 1126 a and 1126 b, and crimp portions (not visible in FIG. 27), respectively. The containers 1124 define container axes A3 and A4, respectively.

The example actuator assembly 1120 comprises a handle housing 1130, first and second outlet members (not visible), a trigger member (not visible), and first and second outlet assemblies 1136 a and 1136 b.

The handle housing 1130 comprises a support wall 1140 and a handle wall (not visible), and detent projections 1144 and 1146 are formed in the support wall 1140. The support wall 1140 further extends rearwardly from the handle wall such that, in use, the support wall 1140 can rest on or otherwise engage the user's forearm when the user's hand is gripping the handle wall and the trigger member. Further, the support wall 1140 is configured to support the aerosol systems 1122 a and 1122 b as shown in FIG. 27.

Turning now to FIGS. 28 and 29 of the drawing, depicted therein is an example actuator assembly 1220 adapted to be connected to an aerosol system 1222 to facilitate the dispensing of material from the aerosol system 1222. The example actuator assembly 1220 and aerosol system 1222 are of particular significance in the dispensing of coatings such as texture material, and that application of the invention will be described herein below.

The example aerosol system 1222 is or may be conventional and will be described herein only to that extent necessary for a complete understanding of the present invention. The example aerosol system comprises a container 1224, a valve assembly 1226, and crimp portions 1228 a and 1228 b. The container 1224 defines a container axis A5.

The example actuator assembly 1220 comprises a handle housing 1230, an outlet member 1232, a trigger member 1234, and an outlet assembly 1236.

The handle housing 1230 comprises a support wall 1240 and a handle wall 1242, and detent projections 1244 and 1246 are formed in the support wall 1240.

The outlet member 1232 comprises a connecting end 1250 and a distal end 1252. The connecting end 1250 is arranged at substantially a right angle to the distal end 1252. The outlet member 1232 is supported for sliding movement relative to the handle housing 1230 along an outlet axis A6. The outlet axis A6 is substantially vertical during normal use of the example actuator assembly 1220.

The outlet assembly 1236 is secured to the distal end 1252 of the outlet member 1232. Optionally, the outlet assembly 1236 may define an adjustable orifice to facilitate the dispensing of texture material in different texture patterns.

The example trigger member 1234 comprises a finger portion 1260 and a trigger projection 1262. The trigger member 1234 is rotatably connected to the handle housing 1230 about a trigger axis A7. Further, the trigger projection 1262 on the trigger member 1234 engages outlet member 1232 such that pivoting or circular movement of the trigger projection 1262 causes linear movement of the outlet member 1232 along the outlet axis A6.

In use, the container 1224 is arranged such that the container axis A5 is aligned with the outlet axis A6 and displaced along the outlet axis A6 until the connecting end 1250 of the outlet member 1232 engages the valve 1226. The housing support wall 1240 supports the container 1224 when the outlet member connecting end 1250 engages the valve 1226. Further, the detent projections 1244 and 1246 engage the crimp portion 1228 b to inhibit movement of the container 1224 along the outlet axis A6 when the outlet member connecting end 1250 engages the valve 1126.

At this point, the user grips the handle wall 1242 and squeezes the finger portion 1260 of the trigger member 1234 towards the handle wall 1242. Rotating movement of the finger portion 1260 causes similar rotating movement of the trigger projection 1262. Movement of the trigger projection causes linear movement of the outlet member 1232 towards the valve assembly 1226. The connecting end 1250 of the outlet member places the valve assembly 1226 in its open configuration, allowing dispensed material to flow out of the aerosol system 1222 through the outlet member 1232 and the outlet assembly 1236.

Turning now to FIGS. 30 and 31 of the drawing, depicted therein is an example actuator assembly 1320 adapted to be connected to an aerosol system 1322 to facilitate the dispensing of material from the aerosol system 1322. The example actuator assembly 1320 and aerosol system 1322 are of particular significance in the dispensing of coatings such as texture material, and that application of the invention will be described herein below.

The example aerosol system 1322 is or may be conventional and will be described herein only to that extent necessary for a complete understanding of the present invention. The example aerosol system comprises a container 1324, a valve assembly 1326, and crimp portions 1328 a and 1328 b. The container 1324 defines a container axis A8.

The example actuator assembly 1320 comprises a handle housing 1330, an outlet member 1332, a trigger member 1334, and an outlet assembly 1336.

The handle housing 1332 comprises a support wall 1340 and a handle wall 1342, and detent projections 1344 and 1346 are formed in the support wall 1340. The support wall 1340 is configured to support the aerosol system 1322 as will be described in further detail below.

The outlet member 1332 comprises a connecting end 1350 and a distal end 1352. The connecting end 1350 is arranged at substantially a right angle to the distal end 1352. The outlet member 1332 is supported for rotating movement relative to the handle housing 1330 along an outlet axis A9. The outlet axis A9 is substantially vertical during normal use of the example actuator assembly 1320.

The outlet assembly 1336 is secured to the distal end 1352 of the outlet member 1332. Optionally, the outlet assembly 1336 may define an adjustable orifice to facilitate the dispensing of texture material in different texture patterns.

The example trigger member 1334 comprises a finger portion 1360 and a trigger projection 1362. The trigger member 1334 is rotatably connected to the handle housing 1330 about a trigger axis A10.

In use, the container 1324 is arranged such that the container axis A8 is aligned with the outlet axis A9 and displaced along the outlet axis A9 until the connecting end 1350 of the outlet member 1332 engages the valve 1326. The housing support wall 1340 supports the container 1324 when the outlet member connecting end 1350 engages the valve 1326. Further, the detent projections 1344 and 1346 engage the crimp portion 1338 a to inhibit movement of the container 1324 along the outlet axis A9 when the outlet member connecting end 1350 engages the valve 1326.

At this point, the user grips the handle wall 1342 and squeezes the finger portion 1360 of the trigger member 1334 towards the handle wall 1342. Movement of the trigger projection causes linear movement of the outlet member 1332 towards the valve assembly 1326. The connecting end 1350 of the outlet member 1326 places the valve assembly 1326 in its open configuration, allowing dispensed material to flow out of the aerosol system through the outlet member 1332 and the outlet assembly 1336.

Turning now to FIG. 32 of the drawing, depicted therein is an example actuator assembly 1420 adapted to be connected to an aerosol system 1422 to facilitate the dispensing of material from the aerosol system 1422. The example actuator assembly 1420 and aerosol system 1422 are of particular significance in the dispensing of coatings such as texture material, and that application of the invention will be described herein below.

The example aerosol assembly 1422 is or may be conventional and will be described herein only to that extent necessary for a complete understanding of the present invention. The example aerosol assembly comprises a container 1424 and a valve assembly 1426.

The example actuator assembly 1420 comprises a handle housing 1430, an outlet member (not visible), a trigger member 1434, and an outlet assembly 1436.

The actuator assembly 1420 further comprises a conduit 1440 adapted to be connected between the handle housing 1430 and the valve assembly 1426.

With the conduit 1440 connected between the handle housing and the valve assembly 1426, the user squeezes the trigger member 1434 in order to dispense the material contained with the aerosol system 1422. Any of the mechanisms described herein for causing linear movement of an outlet member based on rotating or pivoting movement of the trigger member may be used in the example actuator assembly 1420.

Referring initially to FIGS. 33 and 34 of the drawings, depicted therein is an example of an aerosol protection system 2020 constructed in accordance with, and embodying, the principles of the present invention. The example protection system 2020 is used with an aerosol system 2022. The example aerosol system 2022 is or may be conventional and will be explained herein only to that extent necessary for a complete understanding of the present invention.

The example aerosol system 2022 comprises an aerosol container 2030 and a valve cup 2032. The valve cup 2032 is mounted to the container 2030 at a rim structure 2040 formed by a container crimped portion 2042 and a valve cup crimped portion 2044. The example aerosol assembly 2022 further comprises a valve assembly 2050 and a dip tube 2052. The example valve assembly 2050 comprises a valve housing 2060, a valve seat member 2062, a valve member 2064, and a valve spring 2066. The valve member 2064 defines a valve member cavity 2070 and a valve member projection 2072 that extends into the valve cavity 2070.

The example valve cup 2032 defines an exterior surface 2080 having a mouth portion 2082, a throat portion 2084, and an undercut portion 2086. A diameter of the mouth portion 2082 is smaller than a diameter of the throat portion 2084. The undercut portion 2086 extends between the mouth portion 2082 and the throat portion 2084 and has a vector component that is substantially perpendicular to an axis A defined by the container 2030 when the valve cup 2032 is joined to the aerosol container 2030 by the rim structure 2040. The exterior surface 2080 of the valve cup 2032 further defines an outermost rim portion 2090 and a rim end portion 2092. The cross-sectional area (and thus diameter) of the outermost rim portion 2090 is larger than that of the rim end portion 2092, so the rim end portion 2092 also has a vector component that is also substantially perpendicular to the container axis A when the valve cup 2032 is joined to the aerosol container 2030.

The aerosol system 2022 thus defines certain components and features that will be accommodated by the various examples of the protection system 2020 of the present invention as described herein. To the contrary, the example protection system 2020 of the present invention facilitates the use of aerosol systems of many sizes, shapes, and configurations. In that context, the example aerosol system 2022 will not be described again in detail in connection with other examples of the aerosol assembly protection systems of the present invention.

FIGS. 33 and 34 further show that the example protection system 2020 comprises an example adapter member 2120 having a rim portion 2122, a perimeter portion 2124, and a center portion 2130. As perhaps best shown in FIG. 34, the example center portion 2130 is defined by a score line 2132 and a score opening 2134. The perimeter portion 2124 extends between the score line 2132 and/or score opening 2134 defined by the center portion 2130 and the rim portion 2122.

As shown in FIG. 33, the example score line 2132 is a V-shaped depression or cavity extending from an outer surface 2140 of the adapter member 2120 towards, but not completely to, an inner surface 2142 of the adapter member 2120. The example score opening 2134 is a rectangular hole extending completely through the adapter member 2120 from the outer surface 2140 to the inner surface 2142. The score opening 2134 allows a tool 2150 such as a screwdriver to be inserted at least partly through the score opening 2134.

The example rim portion 2122 is sized and dimensioned to form a snap fit with the rim structure 2040. In particular, the inner surface 2142 of the adapter member 2120 defines an outermost surface portion 2160 and a return surface portion 2162. A cross-sectional area (and thus diameter) of the outermost surface portion 2160 substantially matches a cross-sectional area (and thus diameter) defined by the outermost rim portion 2090 of the rim structure 2040, and a cross-sectional area (and thus diameter) of the surface return portion 2162 is slightly smaller than the cross-sectional areas of the outermost surface portion 2160 and the outermost rim portion 2090 of the rim structure 2040.

To assemble the example adapter member 2120 onto the aerosol system 2022, the adapter member 2120 is displaced until the return surface portion 2162 engages the outermost rim portion 2090. Further displacement of the example adapter member 2120 causes the rim portion 2122 of the adapter member 2120 to deflect or deform slightly to allow the return surface portion 2162 to pass beyond the slightly larger outermost rim portion 2090 and into a connected configuration as shown in FIGS. 33 and 36. In the connected configuration, the outermost surface portion 2160 is in contact with the outermost rim portion 2090, and the return surface portion 2162 is in contact with the rim end portion 2092. Because of the relative size relationships of the return surface portion 2162 and the rim portions 2090 and 2092, the return surface portion 2162 positively engages the rim structure 2040 to inhibit inadvertent removal of the adapter member 2120 from the aerosol system 2022.

At this point, a protected chamber 2170 is formed between a portion of the cup exterior surface 2080 and a portion of the inner surface 2142 of the example adapter member 2120. FIG. 33 further shows that the center portion 2130 may be sized and dimensioned relative to the rim portion 2122 such that a portion of the inner surface 2142 of the adapter member 2120 defined by the center portion 2130 may be in contact with the cup exterior surface 2080 to inhibit entry of contaminants into the valve member cavity 2070.

As shown in FIGS. 34 and 35, the center portion 2130 of the adapter member 2120 may be removed from the rim portion 2122 and the perimeter portion 2124 by inserting the tool 2150 through the score opening 2134 and into the protected chamber 2170 and pivoting the tool 2150 such that the adapter member 2120 is broken into a first piece 2180 and a second piece 2182. The first piece 2180 corresponds to the rim portion 2122 and intermediate portion 2124 and remains in place on the aerosol system 2022, and the second piece 2182 is formed by the center portion 2130. The second portion 2182 may be discarded at this point.

With the second piece 2182 formed by the center portion 2130 removed from the first piece 2180 formed by the rim portion 2122 and intermediate portion 2124 as shown in FIG. 36, access to the protected chamber 2170, and also to the valve member cavity 2070 is allowed. In this case, an actuator member or actuator assembly such as an example actuator assembly 2190 depicted in FIG. 36 may be engaged with the valve assembly 2050 to allow material to be dispensed from the aerosol system 2022.

FIG. 37 shows that the example protection system 2020 may be formed by an example adapter member 2220 having a rim portion 2222, a perimeter portion 2224, a plug portion, 2226, and a center portion 2230. The example center portion 2230 is defined by a score line 2232 and a score opening 2234. The perimeter portion 2224 extends between the score line 2232 and/or score opening 2234 defined by the center portion 2230 and the rim portion 2222.

The example score line 2232 is a V-shaped depression or cavity extending from an outer surface 2240 of the adapter member 2220 towards, but not completely to, an inner surface 2242 of the adapter member 2220. The example score opening 2234 is a rectangular hole extending completely through the adapter member 2220 from the outer surface 2240 to the inner surface 2242. The score opening 2234 allows a tool such as a screwdriver to be inserted at least partly through the score opening 2234.

The example rim portion 2222 is sized and dimensioned to form a snap fit with the rim structure 2040. The plug portion 2226 extends from the perimeter portion 2224 of the second example adapter member 2220 towards the valve cup 2032 when the adapter member 2220 is secured to the aerosol assembly as shown in FIG. 37.

In particular, an outer surface 2250 of the plug portion 2226 defines a proximal surface portion 2252, a distal surface portion surface portion 2254, and a transition surface portion 2256. A cross-sectional area (and thus diameter) of the proximal surface portion 2252 substantially matches a cross-sectional area (and thus diameter) defined by the mouth portion 2082 of the valve cup 2032, while a cross-sectional area (and thus diameter) of the distal surface portion 2254 substantially matches a cross-sectional area (and thus diameter) defined by the throat portion 2084 of the valve cup 2032. Further, a cross-sectional area (and thus diameter) of the proximal surface portion 2252 is slightly smaller than the cross-sectional area of the distal surface portion 2254 and of the throat portion 2084 of the valve cup 2032.

To assemble the example adapter member 2220 onto the aerosol system 2022, the adapter member 2220 is displaced until the distal surface portion 2254 of the plug portion 2226 engages the mouth portion 2082 of the valve cup 2032. Further displacement of the example adapter member 2220 causes the plug portion 2226 to deflect or deform slightly to allow the distal surface portion 2254 to pass beyond the slightly smaller mouth portion 2082 and into a connected configuration as shown in FIG. 37. In the connected configuration, the rim portion 2222 is in contact with the rim structure 2040, and the distal surface portion 2254 is beyond the undercut portion 2086 such that the plug portion 2226 positively engages the valve cup 2032 to inhibit inadvertent removal of the adapter member 2220 from the aerosol system 2022.

At this point, a protected chamber 2270 is formed between a portion of the cup exterior surface 2080 and a portion of the inner surface 2242 of the example adapter member 2220. FIG. 37 further shows that the center portion 2230 may be sized and dimensioned relative to the rim portion 2222 such that a portion of the inner surface 2242 of the adapter member 2220 defined by the center portion 2230 may be in contact with the cup exterior surface 2080 to inhibit entry of contaminants into the valve member cavity 2070.

The center portion 2230 of the adapter member 2220 may be removed from the rim portion 2222 and the perimeter portion 2224 by inserting a tool through the score opening 2234 and into the protected chamber 2270 and pivoting the tool such that the adapter member 2220 is broken into a first piece and a second piece. The first piece corresponds to the rim portion 2222 and intermediate portion 2224 and remains in place on the aerosol system 2022, and the second piece is formed by the center portion 2230. The center portion 2230 may be discarded at this point.

With the second portion 2230 removed, access to the protected chamber 2270 and the valve member cavity 2070 is allowed. In this case, an actuator member or actuator assembly may be engaged with the valve assembly 2050 to allow material to be dispensed from the aerosol system 2022.

FIG. 38 shows that the example protection system 2020 may be formed by an example adapter member 2320 having a rim portion 2322, a perimeter portion 2324, a plug portion, 2326, and a center portion 2330. The example center portion 2330 is defined by a score line 2332 and a score opening 2334. The perimeter portion 2324 extends between the score line 2332 and/or score opening 2334 defined by the center portion 2330 and the rim portion 2322.

The example score line 2332 is a V-shaped depression or cavity extending from an outer surface 2340 of the adapter member 2320 towards, but not completely to, an inner surface 2342 of the adapter member 2320. The example score opening 2334 is a rectangular hole extending completely through the adapter member 2320 from the outer surface 2340 to the inner surface 2342. The score opening 2334 allows a tool such as a screwdriver to be inserted at least partly through the score opening 2334.

The plug portion 2326 extends from the perimeter portion 2324 of the example adapter member 2320 towards the valve cup 2032 when the adapter member 2320 is secured to the aerosol assembly as shown in FIG. 38.

In particular, an outer surface 2350 of the plug portion 2326 defines a proximal surface portion 2352, a distal surface portion 2354, and a transition surface portion 2356. A cross-sectional area (and thus diameter) of the proximal surface portion 2352 substantially matches a cross-sectional area (and thus diameter) defined by the mouth portion 2082 of the valve cup 2032, while a cross-sectional area (and thus diameter) of the distal surface portion 2354 substantially matches a cross-sectional area (and thus diameter) defined by the throat portion 2084 of the valve cup 2032. Further, a cross-sectional area (and thus diameter) of the proximal surface portion 2352 is slightly larger than the cross-sectional area of the distal surface portion 2354 and of the throat portion 2084 of the valve cup 2032.

In addition, the inner surface 2342 of the adapter member 2320 defines an outermost surface portion 2360 and a return surface portion 2362. A cross-sectional area (and thus diameter) of the outermost surface portion 2360 substantially matches a cross-sectional area (and thus diameter) defined by the outermost rim portion 2090 of the rim structure 2040, and a cross-sectional area (and thus diameter) of the surface return portion 2362 is slightly smaller than the cross-sectional areas of the outermost surface portion 2360 and the outermost rim portion 2090 of the rim structure 2040.

To assemble the example adapter member 2320 onto the aerosol system 2022, the adapter member 2320 is displaced until the distal surface portion 2354 of the plug portion 2326 engages the mouth portion 2082 of the valve cup 2032 and the return surface portion 2362 engages the outermost rim portion 2090. The plug portion 2326 engages the valve cup 2032 in a manner similar to that of the plug portion 2226 described above, and the rim portion 2322 engages the rim structure 2040 in a manner similar to that of the rim portion 2122 described above.

At this point, a protected chamber 2370 is formed between a portion of the cup exterior surface 2080 and a portion of the inner surface 2342 of the example adapter member 2320. FIG. 38 further shows that the center portion 2330 may be sized and dimensioned relative to the rim portion 2322 such that a portion of the inner surface 2342 of the adapter member 2320 defined by the center portion 2330 may be in contact with the cup exterior surface 2080 to inhibit entry of contaminants into the valve member cavity 2070.

The center portion 2330 of the adapter member 2320 may be removed from the rim portion 2322 and the perimeter portion 2324 by inserting a tool through the score opening 2334 and into the protected chamber 2370 and pivoting the tool such that the adapter member 2320 is broken into a first piece and a second piece. The first piece corresponds to the rim portion 2322 and intermediate portion 2324 and remains in place on the aerosol system 2022, and the second piece is formed by the center portion 2330. The center portion 2330 may be discarded at this point.

With the center portion 2330 removed, access to the protected chamber 2370 and the valve member cavity 2070 is allowed. In this case, an actuator member or actuator assembly may be engaged with the valve assembly 2050 to allow material to be dispensed from the aerosol system 2022.

FIG. 39 shows that the example protection system 2020 may also comprise an example adapter member 2420 having a rim portion 2422, a spacing portion 2424, and a center portion 2430. As perhaps best shown in FIG. 39, the example center portion 2430 is defined by a score line 2432 and a score opening 2434. The spacing portion 2424 extends between the score line 2432 and/or score opening 2434 defined by the center portion 2430 and the rim portion 2422.

As shown in FIG. 39, the example score line 2432 is a V-shaped depression or cavity extending from an outer surface 2440 of the adapter member 2420 towards, but not completely to, an inner surface 2442 of the adapter member 2420. The example score opening 2434 is a rectangular hole extending completely through the adapter member 2420 from the outer surface 2440 to the inner surface 2442. The score opening 2434 allows a tool such as a screwdriver to be inserted at least partly through the score opening 2434.

The example rim portion 2422 is sized and dimensioned to form a snap fit with the rim structure 2040 in the same basic manner as the example rim portion 2122 described above. To assemble the example adapter member 2420 onto the aerosol system 2022, the adapter member 2420 is displaced until the rim portion 2122 forms a snap fit with the rim structure 2040.

At this point, a protected chamber 2470 is formed between a portion of the cup exterior surface 2080 and a portion of the inner surface 2442 of the example adapter member 2420. However, the example spacing portion 2424 takes the form of an elongate cylinder extending from the rim portion 2422 to allow the use of a valve assembly 2050 having a preassembled male actuator member 2472 as shown in FIG. 39. FIG. 39 further shows that the spacing portion 2424 and the center portion 2430 may be sized and dimensioned to be in contact with the actuator member 2472 to inhibit entry of contaminants into the valve member cavity 2070.

As above, the center portion 2430 of the adapter member 2420 may be removed from the rim portion 2422 and the spacing portion 2424 by inserting a tool through the score opening 2434 and into the protected chamber 2470 and pivoting the tool such that the adapter member 2420 is broken into a first piece and a second piece. The first piece corresponds to the rim portion 2422 and intermediate portion 2424 and remains in place on the aerosol system 2022, and the second piece is formed by the center portion 2430. The center portion 2430 may be discarded at this point.

With the center portion 2430 removed, access to the protected chamber 2470, and also to the valve member cavity 2070 is allowed. In this case, an actuator member or actuator assembly may be engaged with the valve assembly 2050 to allow material to be dispensed from the aerosol system 2022.

Turning now to FIG. 40 of the drawing, depicted therein is an example adapter member 2520 that may be used to form the adapter system 2020 of the present invention. The example adapter member 2520 is similar to the example adapter member 2320, except that an internal threaded adapter surface 2522 is formed on a plug portion 2524 of the adapter member 2520. The adapter surface 2522 allows a separate dispensing assembly to be securely attached in a predetermined relationship relative to the valve assembly 2050 of the aerosol system 2022.

FIG. 41 depicts an example adapter member 2620 that may be used to form the adapter system 2020 of the present invention. The example adapter member 2620 is also similar to the example adapter member 2320, except that an externally threaded adapter surface 2622 is formed on a spacing portion 2624 of the adapter member 2620. The adapter surface 2622 allows a separate dispensing assembly to be securely attached in a predetermined relationship relative to the valve assembly 2050 of the aerosol system 2022.

FIG. 42 depicts an example adapter member 2720 that may be used to form the adapter system 2020 of the present invention. The example adapter member 2720 is also similar to the example adapter member 2320, except that snap projections 2722 are formed on a lower wall 2724 of a perimeter portion 2726 of the adapter member 2720. The snap projections 2722 engage recesses formed on a separate dispensing assembly such that the separate dispensing assembly may be secured in a predetermined relationship relative to the valve assembly 2050 of the aerosol system 2022. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A dispenser for aerosol material, comprising: an aerosol assembly comprising a valve structure and defining a rim structure that extends at least around the valve structure; an adapter assembly comprising a fixed member adapted to be attached to the rim structure, and a removable member adapted to detachably attached to the fixed member; and an actuator assembly adapted to be detachably attached to the fixed member; wherein the dispenser is in a first configuration when the fixed member is attached to the rim structure, and the removable member is detachably attached to the fixed member; the dispenser is in a second configuration when the fixed member is attached to the rim structure, and the actuator assembly is detachably attached to the fixed member; the removable member substantially covers the valve structure when the dispenser is in the first configuration; and the actuator assembly engages the valve assembly to allow product to be dispensed from the aerosol assembly when the dispenser is in the second configuration.
 2. A dispenser as recited in claim 1, in which: the fixed part defines a first threaded portion; the removable part defines a second threaded portion; the actuator dispenser defines a third threaded portion; the first threaded portion engages the second threaded portion when the dispenser is in the first configuration; and the first threaded portion engages the third threaded portion when the dispenser is in the second configuration.
 3. A dispenser as recited in claim 2, in which: the first threaded portion is internally threaded; and the second and third threaded portions are externally threaded.
 4. A dispenser as recited in claim 2, in which: the first threaded portion is externally threaded; and the second and third threaded portions are internally threaded.
 5. A dispenser as recited in claim 1, in which: the fixed part defines a first keyed portion; the removable part defines a second keyed portion; the actuator dispenser defines a third keyed portion; the first keyed portion engages the second keyed portion when the dispenser is in the first configuration; and the first keyed portion engages the third keyed portion when the dispenser is in the second configuration.
 6. A dispenser as recited in claim 5, in which: the first keyed portion defines a transition opening and at least one key notch; the second threaded portion defines a first locking lip adapted to extend through the at least one key notch and engage the fixed part to secure the removable part to the fixed part; and the third threaded portion defines a second locking lip adapted to extend through the at least one key notch and engage the fixed part to secure the actuator assembly to the fixed part.
 7. A dispenser as recited in claim 1, in which: the fixed part defines a first threaded portion; the removable part is integrally formed with the fixed part when the dispenser is in the first configuration; and the removable part is detached from fixed part when the dispenser is in the second configuration.
 8. A dispenser as recited in claim 1, in which: the fixed part defines a first threaded portion; the fixed part and the removable part are integrally formed when the dispenser is in the first configuration; the actuator dispenser defines a second threaded portion; the removable part is broken away from the fixed part and the first threaded portion engages the second threaded portion when the dispenser is in the second configuration.
 9. A dispenser as recited in claim 8, in which: the first threaded portion is internally threaded; and the second threaded portion is externally threaded.
 10. A dispenser as recited in claim 8, in which: the first threaded portion is externally threaded; and the second threaded portion is internally threaded.
 11. A dispenser as recited in claim 1, in which: the fixed part defines a first keyed portion; the fixed part and the removable part are integrally formed when the dispenser is in the first configuration; the actuator dispenser defines a second keyed portion; the removable part is broken away from the fixed part and the first keyed portion engages the second keyed portion when the dispenser is in the second configuration.
 12. A dispenser as recited in claim 11, in which: the first keyed portion defines a transition opening and at least one key notch; and the second threaded portion defines a second locking lip adapted to extend through the at least one key notch and engage the fixed part to secure the actuator assembly to the fixed part.
 13. A dispenser as recited in claim 1, in which the actuator assembly is arranged above the aerosol assembly during normal use of the dispenser.
 14. A dispenser as recited in claim 1, in which the actuator assembly is arranged below the aerosol assembly during normal use of the dispenser.
 15. A method of dispensing aerosol material, comprising the steps of: providing an aerosol assembly comprising a valve structure and defining a rim structure that extends at least around the valve structure; an adapter assembly comprising a fixed member adapted to be attached to the rim structure, and a removable member adapted to detachably attached to the fixed member; and providing an actuator assembly adapted to be detachably attached to the fixed member; arranging the dispenser in a first configuration by attaching the fixed member to the rim structure and the removable member to the fixed member such that the removable member substantially covers the valve structure; arranging the dispenser in a second configuration by attaching the fixed member to the rim structure and the actuator assembly to the fixed member such that the actuator assembly engages the valve assembly; and operating the actuator assembly to dispense product from the aerosol assembly when the dispenser is in the second configuration.
 16. A method as recited in claim 15, in which: the step of providing the fixed part comprises the step of forming a first threaded portion; the step of providing the removable part comprises the step of forming a second threaded portion; the step of providing the actuator dispenser comprises the step of forming a third threaded portion; the first threaded portion engages the second threaded portion when the dispenser is in the first configuration; and the first threaded portion engages the third threaded portion when the dispenser is in the second configuration.
 17. A method as recited in claim 15, in which: the step of providing the fixed part comprises the step of forming a first keyed portion; the step of providing the removable part comprises the step of forming a second keyed portion; the step of providing the actuator dispenser comprises the step of forming a third keyed portion; the first keyed portion engages the second keyed portion when the dispenser is in the first configuration; and the first keyed portion engages the third keyed portion when the dispenser is in the second configuration.
 18. A method as recited in claim 15, in which: the step of providing the removable part comprises the step of integrally forming the removable part with the fixed part when the dispenser is in the first configuration; and the removable part is detached from fixed part when the dispenser is in the second configuration.
 19. A method as recited in claim 15, in which: the step of providing the fixed part comprises the step of forming a first threaded portion; the step of providing the removable part comprises the step of integrally forming the removable part with the fixed part when the dispenser is in the first configuration; the actuator dispenser defines a second threaded portion; the removable part is broken away from the fixed part and the first threaded portion engages the second threaded portion when the dispenser is in the second configuration.
 20. A method as recited in claim 15, in which: the step of providing the fixed part comprises the step of forming a first keyed portion; the step of providing the removable part comprises the step of integrally forming the removable part with the fixed part when the dispenser is in the first configuration; the step of providing the actuator dispenser comprises the step of forming a second keyed portion; and the removable part is broken away from the fixed part and the first keyed portion engages the second keyed portion when the dispenser is in the second configuration. 